This is why it
is so important to know what you value, why you value it and
what precedence it takes in your life.

Four Categories of a Personal Value System

Personal Values - Personal values are those
traits we see as worth aspiring to, and that define our character.

Spiritual Values - The values that connect
us to a higher power and give us a sense of purpose beyond our material
existence.

Family Values - To love and care for those
we are close to; our children, our parents, other family members, and
our friends.

Career Values - The best use and expression
of our talents and skills for the purposes of contributing to society
and for monetary compensation.

Which values do we as social beings find desirable?

No matter what tradition we are brought up in, there are
characteristics we value in others which transcend social, economic and
religious boundaries. Some of these characteristics are:

Integrity
Integrity is trustworthiness, honesty and uprightness of character.
We value people of integrity because we know what to expect from them.
We know they will act honorably and that they will do what they think
is right. We want people with integrity as our friends, on our teams
and in our organizations.

Respect
Respect is honoring the worth and dignity of all people. Those who
respect others treat them with fairness and courtesy. They treat others
the way they themselves wish to be treated.

Loyalty
Loyalty is a commitment and faithfulness to a person or cause. Those
who are loyal to their family, friends, organizations and country stand
behind and support them during good times and bad times. They can be
counted on to be there when the going gets difficult and to help out
when the chips are down.

Responsibility
Those who accept responsibility are reliable, dependable and willing to
take accountability for who they are and what they do. They believe
they have a moral obligation to help others and to make a contribution
to the society they live in.

No matter what values we choose live by, it is vital that we
look at the big picture, assess what we want our role to be, and map
out how we intend to conduct our lives.